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Team standing outside CEDF office
CEDF Loan Team

Small Business Loans

CEDF provides financing to support the many stages of starting and growing a business. As Connecticut’s leading SBA Microlender, we offer small business term loans from a few thousand dollars up to $50,000. We also provide larger small business term loans, small business lines of credit, and owner-occupied commercial mortgages.

At CEDF, we are committed to your long-term success — building trusted relationships and providing the guidance, resources, and support you need to move your business forward with confidence.

Why apply for a CEDF loan?

No application fees

Repayment terms up to
10 years

No prepayment penalties

Coaching from a CEDF Business Advisor for the term of your loan

CEDF works with businesses in many industries, including:

  • Nonprofit
  • Childcare
  • Mental Health Practitioners
  • Food & Beverage
  • Landscaping
  • Manufacturing
  • Retail
Great Minds Coffee Roasters, LLC
Great Minds Coffee Roasters, LLC

Loan Eligibility

CEDF lends to small businesses and nonprofits throughout Connecticut. Eligibility is based on governing state statutes and federal regulations. Criteria change periodically but may include:

You are unable to get a loan from a traditional bank to serve your business needs.
Your household income falls below the current federally designated threshold for the state or the community where you live.
Your business operates in an economically disadvantaged community as identified by the state or federal government.

We specialize in working with business owners who:

Have low credit scores
Have limited collateral
Have been turned down by a bank
Have limited sales or time in business

Ready To Apply for a Loan?

CEDF understands that the needs of each business are unique. Our goal is to help structure the best funding solution for your circumstances.

Term Loans
Up to $250,000 for working capital, building improvements, equipment, and other needs, or for refinancing debt.
SBA Microloans
Up to $50,000 for working capital, inventory or supplies, furniture, and equipment, or for refinancing debt.
Commercial Real Estate Loans
Up to $500,000 to purchase owner-occupied or investor commercial real estate.
Business Lines of Credit
Up to $250,000 in short-term financing for seasonal or cyclical operating cash flow needs.
Nonprofit Loans
Financing for qualified 501(c)(3) organizations headquartered in Connecticut.